3-Ingredient Crockpot Meatballs

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3-Ingredient Crockpot Meatballs

Description

These 3-Ingredient Crockpot Meatballs are the ultimate low-effort, high-reward recipe. With just frozen meatballs, a sweet-savory sauce, and a slow cooker, you get tender, flavorful meatballs perfect for parties, game day, meal prep, or busy weeknights. No prep, no stress — just dump, cook, and serve.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

  1. 2 lbs frozen meatballs
    (Beef, turkey, or chicken — fully cooked)

  2. 12 oz chili sauce
    (Store-bought or homemade)

  3. 1 cup grape jelly
    (Or cranberry jelly for a tangy twist)

Instructions

  1. Place frozen meatballs directly into the crockpot.

  2. Pour chili sauce evenly over the meatballs.

  3. Add grape jelly on top.

  4. Cover and cook:

    • Low: 4–5 hours

    • High: 2–3 hours

  5. Stir once halfway through if possible.

  6. Serve warm straight from the crockpot.

Notes

  • No need to thaw meatballs first.

  • Sauce thickens naturally as it cooks.

  • Flavor improves the longer they sit on warm mode.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use homestyle meatballs for better texture.

  • For less sweetness, reduce jelly to ¾ cup.

  • Add a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra depth.

  • Keep crockpot on warm during parties to prevent overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

  • Toothpicks for appetizers

  • Over rice or mashed potatoes

  • In hoagie rolls for meatball subs

  • With egg noodles for a quick dinner

Servings

  • 6–8 servings

  • About 5–6 meatballs per serving

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 14g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 26g

  • Sugar: 20g

  • Sodium: 780mg

(Values vary based on meatball brand and sauce used.)

Benefits

  • ✔ Only 3 ingredients

  • ✔ Budget-friendly

  • ✔ Perfect for crowds

  • ✔ No prep or chopping

  • ✔ Freezer-friendly leftovers

  • ✔ Great for beginners

Q & A

Q: Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes! Fully cook them first before adding to the crockpot.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in the crockpot or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes — store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Q: Is there a substitute for grape jelly?
Yes — cranberry jelly, apricot preserves, or honey all work well.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
Add hot chili sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to taste.

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